A significant step has been taken to bolster South Africa’s world-class field guiding industry capabilities through registration of the region’s leading guides association as a professional body.

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) has announced it is transitioning from an accredited training provider to a South African Qualifications Authority-recognised professional body for the nature guiding sector.

FGASA Managing Director Michelle du Plessis said the move will allow the association to “better represent the interests of field guides, advocate for their professional development and ensure standards and qualifications are aligned with the industry’s needs.

“These changes will ensure South Africa continues to produce the best guides in the world. By professionalising this sector, we're not only supporting the guides but also contributing to the overall growth and competitiveness of South Africa's tourism industry.”

The most significant change is that FGASA will not provide entry-level accredited programmes for nature guides from June 2026 – the deadline for enrolment in expiring Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) programmes.

In future, aspiring nature guides will need to obtain an entry-level qualification via the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. Those already in training before mid-2026 will have a three-year “teach out” period in which to complete their certification.

During this time, FGASA will continue to consult with its partners and the industry and provide guidance on the development of new qualifications to ensure a smooth transition from the current training system to the professional body model.

"We’ve been working closely with CATHSSETA and other industry stakeholders to ensure the new qualifications are developed in a timely manner and to meet the needs of nature guiding as it evolves,” Du Plessis pointed out.